Just when you thought the San Antonio Spurs couldn’t catch a break, another key player hits the sidelines. This time, it’s guard Stephon Castle, who’s expected to miss 2-3 weeks with a left hip flexor strain. But here’s where it gets even more concerning: this news comes just one day after the team announced that Victor Wembanyama, the league’s rising star, is also out with a strained left calf. Suddenly, the Spurs find themselves without their two most recent Rookie of the Year winners—a double blow that could test the team’s depth and resilience.
Castle’s injury was confirmed after an MRI on Monday, following his absence from the second half of San Antonio’s 123-110 win over Sacramento. He logged 15 minutes and 34 seconds in the first half, scoring four points before sitting out the remainder of the game. Meanwhile, Wembanyama, who’s been averaging a jaw-dropping 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and a league-leading 3.58 blocks per game, was spotted at Tuesday’s shootaround—dribbling and working out solo, but not participating in team drills. Castle, on the other hand, has been a steady force with 17.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game.
And this is the part most people miss: the Spurs’ early-season success—a franchise-best 5-0 start and a 9-4 record—has been built on the backs of these young stars. Now, with both sidelined, the team faces a critical test. Can they maintain their momentum without their dynamic duo? Or will this stretch reveal vulnerabilities in their roster?
Adding to the woes, guard Jordan McLaughlin is also out after an MRI confirmed a strained right hamstring during a Monday workout. Is this a minor setback or the start of a troubling trend? The Spurs’ ability to adapt will be under the microscope in the coming weeks. But here’s the bigger question: How will this impact their long-term goals? Let’s not forget, this team has been on a roll, but injuries have a way of reshaping narratives. What do you think—can the Spurs weather this storm, or is their hot start in jeopardy? Sound off in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
